March 12th 2009, the day has come for the Genius.com Engineering and Operations teams to compete for the gold! The racers were primed and ready, donning their multicolored jumpsuits They were riled up by films on driving safety/regulation, then quickly broken into two teams, each taking turns on the track. Expectations were set high for Drew Stephens, who actively races and has a good handle behind the wheel. But the chance for an upset was still in the air. After a few practice rounds the race was on!

Team Genius prepares for the big race!

During the practice rounds Drew had a significant edge for the first team, but it was not out of reach for other competitors. But now it was time for the real race! Team 1 was up first, quickly setting the tone Drew took the lead. Zaid had an early run in with Tony and was put in the penalty box for 30 seconds putting him at an early disadvantage. Drew took an early lead and managed to hold it throughout, even lapping many of the other racers. Amongst the rest of the pack Nader and Shubh traded places several times, while everyone else stayed more or less in place for most of the race.

Now Team 2 was up! Results of the practice round were generally inconclusive for Team 2, standing fluctuated regularly, with Ryan standing just ahead. When Team 2 took to the track there was a sense of inevitability in the air as Drew’s best time was very strong. But after the initial jockeying Ryan was holding strong, but not far behind were Chris Kruger and Marshall. The race was without major incident and despite a good amount of contention, Ryan was able to hold the rest of the pack at bay. In the end Ryan finished with a handsome lead followed, not far behind, by Chris Kruger.

After the race Team Genius gathered to celebrate with snacks and an award ceremony for the top three contestants. All in all everyone had a great time, with Team Genius leaving it’s mark on the track and all drivers eager for another race to unseat Drew as champion for the day.